Microelements are essential for healthy ageing
As we age, our appearance changes, but this transformation is not just skin-deep. In fact, ageing affects every cell in our body. “The rate at which we age may be partly genetic, but it is also affected by the efficiency with which cells regulate essential nutrients such as zinc and copper,” says Irina Korichneva, a professor of Cellular Physiology at the University of Picardie Jules Verne. Microelements such as zinc and copper are absorbed from our food and are used in every cell for thousands of different functions. “During youth and middle age, the body does a good job at balancing the absorption and excretion of these essential elements, but in older age, this balance may break down, resulting in deficiencies that can hasten conditions such as heart disease and cancer,” adds John Beattie, a professor of Nutrition at the Rowett Institute, University of Aberdeen. According to Korichneva and Beattie, the transporters and channels moving zinc and copper into, around and out of cells may be affected by ageing, and thus they could be prime targets for drug therapy. With the support of the EU-funded MILEAGE project, the two set out to study the impact ageing has on the body’s balance of zinc and copper at a cellular and molecular level.
Understanding the molecular processes of zinc and copper homeostasis
Using cutting-edge technology, researchers took a deep dive into the molecular processes of zinc and copper homeostasis at different cellular levels. For example, to identify age-related changes in trace mineral transporters and channels, the project analysed ion fluxes in real time and in live cells. “We accomplished this by coupling a cell culture model system to a sophisticated mass spectrometer, which allowed us to continually monitor stable isotope transfer,” explains Beattie. The project, which received support from the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions programme, also used synchrotron X-ray imaging to visualise elements within the cells at nanometre resolution. Furthermore, genetic modification of key molecules helped dissect molecular mechanisms that modulate zinc and copper homeostasis.
Zinc and copper levels change with age
This intense research confirmed that zinc and copper levels do indeed change with age. It also showed the impact such change can have on overall health. For instance, data showed that the dysregulation of these metals can lead to cardiovascular disorders, brain function deterioration, and cancer. “Our research puts the spotlight on the importance of maintaining an adequate body zinc and copper status for long-term health and longevity,” says Korichneva.
Diet and drugs to counter ageing’s effect on zinc and copper
Based on these findings, researchers have determined biomarkers to detect the effect ageing has on body zinc and copper homeostasis. The research also opens the door to the development of new drugs that could target the transporter proteins and help regulate their function, thus improving homeostatic control of these essential metals. “Increased longevity with a high quality of life is desirable not only for personal life satisfaction, but also for reducing healthcare costs associated with an ageing population,” concludes Korichneva. “The MILEAGE project’s methods, techniques and drugs for regulating microelement homeostasis will help improve health and quality of life in ageing.”
Keywords
MILEAGE, age, cells, nutrients, zinc, copper, microelements, ageing, cellular regulation, health, heart disease, cancer, drug therapy, homeostasis, diet
